From kevyn@KSUVM.KSU.EDUMon Aug 7 20:35:32 1995
Date: Mon, 7 Aug 1995 20:07:24 -0500
From: Kevyn Jacobs
To: Kansas Queer News
Cc: glb-news@listserv.blue.aol.com
Subject: Letter from The Secret Service regarding "The Gloves Incident"
Two months ago, a group of gay elected officials from across the U.S. were
invited to the White House.
Upon arriving, these officials, which included state representatives &
senators, judges, school board members and city officials were greeted by
Secret Service Agents WEARING RUBBER GLOVES.
When I read in the gay press about this blatant show of stupidity and
prejudice by the Secret Service, I was outraged.
I wrote an indignant letter to the President about this incident. Today I
received this letter from the Secret Service, indicating that AIDS/HIV
sensitivity training is now being provided to the agents of the Secret
Service.
I thought I would share it with you.
-Kevyn Jacobs
===============================================
DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
UNITED STATES SECRET SERVICE
Mr. Kevyn Jacobs
811 Fremont, #5
Manhattan, Kansas 66502-5867
Dear Mr. Jacobs:
Thank you for your letter to President Clinton. Your letter, concerning the
actions of members of the Uniformed Division of the Secret Service when
several visitors arrived at the White House recently, has been forwarded to
this office for response.
The Uniformed Division Officers of the U.S. Secret Service have discretion
to wear protective gloves in the performance of their duties. It is not the
policy of the Secret Service to wear gloves merely based on known sexual
preference. The allegations of any form of discrimination by members of
this agency are taken very seriously.
Uniformed Division Officers receive training with respect to health and
safety issues. This training includes developing a sensitivity to issues
relating to discrimination and dealing with the public. This training is
important to our agency and is a high priority. Special training sessions
directed specifically to these matters are being held at this time.
We regret the unfortunate actions that led to the misunderstanding with
this group of White House visitors and appreciate your concern.
Sincerely,
H. Terrence Samway
Assistant Director
Office of Government Liaison and Public Affairs